When it comes to outdoor activities, most people seek solitude. It’s Saturday morning, you’ve been in the office all week and are looking for a chance to get away and relieve some pent-up energy. The exception is when you KNOW a place like Myrtle Beach is just waiting to be scanned with a metal detector.
This description may not sound too appealing to those who have metal detecting as a hobby. Treasure hunters want to find the nearest park or beach and get to swinging. We’re searching for treasure and know that the best finds are going to be where people spend time.
There are few universal places that always produce finds. Each region of the world has a unique geographical aspect that holds treasure. The beach, no matter where in the world you hunt, is always going to be one of the best places to try. All different types of people visit the beach. Plus, the sand holds treasure extremely well.
There are few beaches that in the world as popular as Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. As a result, it’s an amazing place to search. Not only do you have the anticipation of finding something great, but you get a great view of the Atlantic Ocean the entire time.
👉Hey David here the guy behind this website. Check Out My Favorite Metal Detecting Equipment Below 👍 Recommended
When asked what I recommend, the 👉 Nokta Simplex Ultra stands out. Perfect for beginners, it’s waterproof, includes wireless headphones, and offers five functional modes, growing with your detecting skills.
The next thing you need is a great shovel, believe me when I say you’ll dig more knowing you can dig FASTER. The nearly bullet proof Lesche T- Handle Shovel is the most comfortable heavy duty shovel I’ve ever used.
Metal Detecting and Beaches are a perfect match. To search a beach you’ve GOT TO HAVE A SAND SCOOP. CKG Sand Scoops are heavy duty and able to be used as a shovel.
If it’s time up UP YOUR GAME , get the industry standard metal detector. The Minelab Equinox 800 IS THE BEST. Okay it’s not cheap, but your finds are going to increase with this machine.
Can you Metal Detect at Myrtle Beach? Laws and Rules!
Yes, you can. There are a few restrictions you need to be aware of, but for the most part you’re good to search wherever you would like. According to the city of Myrtle Beach website, the beach is okay to detect, but it’s illegal to climb or walk on the sand dunes. It’s also illegal to damage any of the beach grass.
Metal Detecting Tip: If you live in South Carolina and your looking for other places to metal detect, you’ve got to read this article: Best Places to Metal Detect in South Carolina
For an area that is as popular as Myrtle Beach, this is wonderful news. Many “public” places across the United States are not receiving as fortunate of treatment. The folks in charge aren’t growing in their appreciation of metal detectors. Take advantage of the chance to search Myrtle Beach, but be respectful. It only takes one or two mistakes from people and the laws could completely change. Check out the City Laws at this link https://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/services/local_and_regional_links/information/frequently_asked_questions.php
Metal Detecting Tip: Metal Detecting isn’t allowed in Myrtle Beach city parks or on other city property. The beach, however, minus the sand dunes is fair game. Read about the best tools for digging 👉 Digging Tools for Metal Detectorist
Map to Best Places to Metal Detect on Myrtle Beach
The City of Myrtle Beach has around 10 miles of shoreline to hunt. The best places to look are going to be near the resorts! These areas of the beach receive the most attention.
1. Southern Myrtle Beach
The first spot to look is the far south side of the beach. Park in the Nash St. Public Beach Access and get to walking. There are well over 10 resorts in a stretch of a mile.
It’s extremely popular and you’ll have plenty of areas to search. Be sure to try and detect in the morning or evening before it gets too busy! Plus, when you’re done, you have plenty of restaurants or bars to choose from!
2. Central Myrtle Beach
This second spot is a little further north on the beach in the heart of 15 or so resorts.
It’s going to be a similar experience to southern Myrtle Beach, but again, the key is to focus on the areas with numerous hotels. People are going to be in and out of the water constantly leaving treasure for you to find.
3. North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach is considered to be a different city than Myrtle Beach. There are a plethora of hotels and resorts on North Myrtle beach.
The biggest mistake you can make while metal detecting Myrtle Beach is hunting the wide open spaces. There are a few along the coast and while they are quiet, they’re quiet for a reason. Stay by the people! Also, be sure to fill in your holes on North Myrtle Beach. If you don’t, you can be hit by a $100 fine.
4. Myrtle Beach State Park
This is a final option that is smart to hunt on. Detecting is only allowed on the beach, but that’s okay! The closer you can stay to the water, the better. If you’re finished detecting, there are miles of hiking trails and other activities! Plus, it has numerous camping locations for you to crash. Read more about “Metal Detecting Policy for South Carolina State Parks” in this .pdf link.
Metal Detecting Tip: If you’re looking for some great metal detecting tips, read Metal Detecting Tips (That Really Work)
5. North Myrtle Beach
- North Myrtle Beach: This is a fantastic spot I’ve found for metal detecting. It’s a bustling area with lots of tourist activity, which means there could be plenty of treasures waiting to be discovered. Just like in other parts of Myrtle Beach, I adhere to the local rules, such as filling in my holes and not digging too deep. Plus, it’s a beautiful area to explore!
Remember, following the Metal Detecting Code of Ethics is vital wherever we go hunting for treasures.
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Summary of Metal Detecting Rules in Myrtle Beach
As a guy who loves exploring Myrtle Beach, I’ve learned it’s essential to know and follow the local rules. This not only ensures a fun and safe experience but also helps in preserving the natural beauty of the beach. Here’s a quick rundown of the key rules I always keep in mind:
- When and Where to Detect: I can metal detect day or night on the beaches, but I always remember to stay off the dunes and city parks. It’s crucial not to disturb these protected areas.
- Digging Guidelines: I’m careful not to dig holes deeper than two feet and always fill them back in. It’s a good practice to avoid using metal shovels for digging; instead, I use a metal sand scoop, especially within Myrtle Beach city limits.
- Specific Beach Rules: In Myrtle Beach itself, I follow the city’s rules, like the $100 fine for leaving holes unfilled or digging too deep. Outside the city limits, each beach has its own set of rules, but generally, the approach is similar.
- Off-Limits Areas: I always avoid metal detecting in the dunes, street-ends, or any public property that’s not a beach. Respecting these boundaries is crucial for the preservation of the area.
- Environmental Care: Whenever I find trash during my hunts, I make sure to dispose of it properly. Protecting the beach’s natural beauty is something I take seriously.
Read more about the rules in this article from the City of Myrtle Beach 👉 Myrtle Beach Rules
Best Time to Hunt with a Metal Detector at Myrtle Beach
The best time to search Myrtle Beach is either the early or later part of the day. During the middle of the day, the beach is going to be crawling with people. If you start at sunrise, you’ll get a great view and have ample time to look around before people come to claim their spot. It’s also smart to search around sunset. This is going to be busier than sunrise, but still a good time to look before it gets dark.
If at all possible, go early in the week. You have the best shot at the treasure that was dropped over the weekend. Also, you don’t have to worry as much about the beach being full. You have more chance to wander near the beach chairs and other places where people usually congregate.
What do You Need For Beach Metal Detecting?
I’m going to provide an ESSENTIAL beach gear list. Everyone wants to enjoy beach time and dragging a pile of gear to the beach sucks.
- A great multi-frequency metal detector. Different metals react to different frequencies. Having a machine that utilizes multiple frequencies at the same time will greatly improve finding gold and coins. The Best Value is the Nokta Makro Legend check prices and reviews on Amazon with this shortcut link 👉 Nokta Makro Legend
- A great pinpointer, I’m an absolute believer in wireless tech. For years I would get tangled in my headphone wires. GO WIRELESS the Nokta PulseDive links to the Legend’s wireless headphones. Since it’s built for diving, it’s Heavy Duty. Short cut link to Amazon – Nokta Makro PulseDive
- Get a heavy duty sand scoop, I’ve bought the cheap plastic and metal scoops – NOT GOOD. They usually break within a day. 2+ years later I’m still hammering on my CKG Metal Detecting Sand Scoop 👈 Link to Amazon
Metal Detecting Clubs and Stores in the Myrtle Beach Area
Denton’s Detectors is a metal detecting equipment supplier near North Myrtle Beach. This is a great spot to visit and ask for advice. They’re local, so they know what is best!
LMS Metal Detecting is a metal group located near the Myrtle Beach area. They’re a reliable contact to have if you’re planning on heading down to South Carolina.
Take a peak at the Treasure Net forum about Myrtle Beach. It always has people posting on it about trips or interest in forming a club. You can find the forum here.
Tips for Hunting on Beaches
Every beach is going to be a bit different. Some have extremely pure sand and life is easy for metal detectors. The lack of minerals in the ground makes treasure simple to identify. Digging can be frustrating on these beaches due to the fine sand, but do your best to look quickly before the hole refills.
Other beaches are going to have rocky sand and it’s a bit more difficult to hunt. However, it makes the digging easier; especially if the sand is damp.
Metal Detecting Tip: South Carolina is a metal detecting wonderland. Hundreds of miles of beaches! Here’s a list of the best -> 8 Beaches to Metal Detect in South Carolina
The best place to search is always going to be the towel line. This is where people generally sit. Whether it’s someone losing a ring when putting on sunscreen or dumping something out of their bag, it’s always the most successful. Take your time in these areas. If there aren’t too many people around, be thorough and see what you can find.
It’s important to hunt the troughs and pockets. These are the areas of sand close to the water line. They are natural dips and holes that treasure gets washed into. The water swirls around more in these pockets and treasure sinks to the bottom of them instead of getting washed away. Take your time at these pockets. If there’s one piece of treasure there is likely going to be more!
Pay attention to the tide. If it’s low tide, you’ll have much more of the beach to search. The high tide shifts the sand around as it pulls out. Be careful! Know when the tide is going to change and be sure you aren’t too far into the open sand.
If you’d like more articles about metal detecting check out the links below.
- Metal Detecting Digging Tools – Tells you all about shovels, scoops and how to dig a plug.
- DR.OTEK Shovel Review 👈 Read about a shovel that works perfect and is an amazing value.
- Where are the Best Places for a Beginner to Metal Detect? – Just like the title says, this article points the beginner to the highest probability places.
- Can You Metal Detect on BLM Land? – So many people have asked me about BLM detecting I had to write this article.
David Humphries, Writer and Creator of METAL DETECTING TIPS. After borrowing my son’s detector and finding $.25. I felt like a treasure hunter. FREE MONEY! I was seriously bitten by the metal detecting bug.
Read about David -> HERE
Want to send me a question – contact
While metal detecting either early early morning or late night, can dogs be allowed to be on the beach with me ? I would have them with a long leash and or even in a wagon.
Thank you for your help.
Sincerely,
Rita
Hi Rita
Usually yes – before 10am and after 5pm in the busy season. I’d double check at the township office. Here’s a reference https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/plan/pet-friendly-myrtle-beach/
Really interesting post!